Misora Hibari

Until her death, in 1989, Misora Hibari was Japan's best-known singer, specializing in enka, a moody and downbeat ballad form. Hibari began singing in 1949, when she was only 12 years old, and during her four-decade career released more than 500 records. She is best known for her tearful performances of the song "Kanashii Sake." ~ Leon Jackson